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They Tried to Move a Whale
A juvenile humpback washed ashore in Oregon. Could local residents save it?
TL;DR
- A juvenile humpback whale washed ashore near Yachats, Oregon, entangled in crabbing gear.
- Local resident Amy Parker's social media post about the distressed whale gained widespread attention, mobilizing hundreds of people.
- Volunteers, including Rob Heater, spent hours attempting to push the whale back into the sea and keep it wet.
- Professional rescuers from the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network arrived but faced challenges due to darkness, tide, and surf.
- A NOAA-certified researcher, John Calambokidis, attempted a complex refloating operation using specialized equipment, but it ultimately failed.
- The whale, having been stranded for two days, was euthanized.
- The incident led to criticism of the experts and also brought together tribal members for a prayer and ceremonial process.
- For some volunteers, the experience created a lasting sense of community and a connection to the natural world.